Toilet culture in Japan is one of the most advanced in the world. Common features such as heated seats, integrated bidets, hair dryers, deodorization systems, and sound isolation devices to mask natural sounds no longer surprise local residents. In the world of sanitary ware, Japanese toilets are comparable to iPhones, with prices reaching tens of thousands of dollars.

Users can independently adjust the water pressure, direction, and temperature of the built-in bidet, as well as conduct express urine analysis and measure blood pressure using special buttons on the remote control. Similar to high-end car salons, Japanese toilets can memorize and apply settings depending on the user.

One issue with highly advanced Japanese toilets was the abundance of pictograms and buttons on the remotes, often confusing foreign tourists. In anticipation of the 2021 Olympic Games in Tokyo, the Japanese government mandated toilet manufacturers to standardize symbols on smart toilet remotes.

However, Japan has preserved simpler devices, such as traditional floor-standing bowls, alongside advanced technologies. Public places often host these devices. Some toilets feature both Western-style (WS) and Japanese-style (JS) designs.

Tourists face a dilemma when using Japanese-style toilets. It is impossible to sit fully on such toilets; one must assume a squatting position, facing the flush tank rather than the door, contrary to norms in other countries. This is communicated through special signs in toilets.

The traditional Japanese toilet, or “Washiki,” resembles a slipper in shape. Its front part, called “Kinkakushi,” serves to prevent splashes during flushing. Therefore, comfort and cultural traditions influence the practice of sitting on it facing forward.

In his book “The Reverse Side of Japan,” Alexander Kulanov, an Orientalist, discusses a cultural peculiarity of the Japanese related to toilet usage. He quotes a Japanese journalist noting that a person in the toilet is in a vulnerable state and cannot resist danger. Also, they cannot face death. Therefore, Japanese prefer to sit in the toilet facing the wall, even if it means adopting a less protected position.